What's eating my besleria lutea?

Besleria lutea is a tropical gesneriad from Central and South America, grown indoors or in warm conservatories. Mealybugs are the most common pest, targeting the soft stems. Spider mites and aphids may appear under stressful conditions. Good airflow, appropriate humidity, and regular inspection help keep this lesser-known tropical free of pests.

White cottony patches at stem bases, nodes, and leaf undersides; honeydew and sooty mold follow. Spot-treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray to the entire plant; repeat every 10 days for a month.

Yellow speckling and fine webbing on leaves, especially during dry winter months indoors. Rinse foliage with tepid water; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity to deter reinfestation.

Colonies on new growth tips cause leaf curl and deposit sticky honeydew on lower leaves. Remove by hand or with a water spray; apply insecticidal soap or diluted neem oil; repeat weekly as needed.